The Outspoken Cyclist – 10/05/2013

As the seasons continue to transition, The Outspoken Cyclist brings you a trio of guests to help put the season, and cycling in general, in perspective. From low-tech, DIY componentry, to a look at eclectic, human-powered ways to cross the U.S., to the culmination of one man’s desire to see leadership change at the UCI, we’ve got you covered this week.

First up is Sue Knaup of One Street, an international bicycle advocacy organization. Sue is a former bike messenger, former bike shop owner, bike mechanic, and lifelong advocate. A recent outgrowth of One Street’s mission is a new, durable, easy to manufacture shift lever with only six commonly available parts. See more about this Bike Shift Lever for Anybody, by Anybody here.

After a break, Diane welcomes Janet Buckwalter, who has compiled a new book of stories (including her own story) of people who crossed America in unusual ways, or under harsh conditions. The book is entitled One More Mountain: Road Warriors Explore America. I wouldn’t skateboard from coast to coast, but I’m certainly interested in getting inside the mind of someone who did.

Lastly, in the wake of the recent UCI presidential election which saw the defeat of Pat McQuaid and the victory of Brian Cookson, we un-mask the man behind a Facebook page called Pat McQuaid Must Go. The mysterious moderator is Irishman Bryan Keys, and we’ll find out why he started the page, and what he thinks might change in pro cycling during the Cookson era.